Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta

When it comes to combining rich flavors and indulgent textures, few dishes can rival Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta. This delightful recipe features tender, perfectly seasoned ribeye steak atop creamy rigatoni tossed in a velvety garlic parmesan sauce. Whether it’s a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or an elevated twist on a weeknight meal, this dish delivers elegance and satisfaction in every bite.

Save itSave it

Why will you love it? Because it’s:

• A perfect balance of juicy steak and creamy pasta.
• Easy to customize with your favorite pasta or added ingredients.
• A showstopper that looks as good as it tastes.

Let’s dive into the details, from preparation to cooking, and ensure you create a masterpiece.

---

Preparation Phase

Essential Tools and Equipment

To create Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta, you’ll need:

• Frying pan: For searing the steak and making the sauce.
• Large pot: To cook the rigatoni to al dente perfection.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping ingredients and slicing steak.
• Grater: To freshly grate parmesan cheese for the sauce.
• Tongs: To handle the steak during cooking.

Each tool plays a vital role in streamlining the process and achieving the best results.

---

Preparation Tips

1. Marinate the Steak: Seasoning the ribeye ahead of time enhances its flavor. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes (or up to 3 hours if marinating).
2. Prep Ingredients in Advance: Finely dice the onion, mince garlic, and chop parsley before starting. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
3. Cook Pasta Right: Salt the pasta water generously for a flavorful base. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.

---

Ingredient Breakdown

For the Steak:

• 450 g ribeye steak (approx. 2 steaks): Juicy and tender, ribeye is ideal for this dish.
• 1 tablespoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Enhances the steak’s seasoning.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balanced seasoning.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve a golden-brown sear.

For the Sauce and Pasta:

• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star ingredient for a robust garlic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness to the sauce.
• ½ cup chicken stock: Enhances the savory taste of the sauce.
• ½ cup double cream: Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (40 g): For a cheesy, nutty flavor.
• ⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped (10 g): Adds freshness and color.
• 300 g rigatoni: A sturdy pasta perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
• ⅓ cup white wine (optional, 75 ml): Deglazes the pan and adds a subtle tang.

---

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Generously season both sides of the ribeye steaks with paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and rub the seasoning into the meat.
• Finely dice the onion, mince garlic, chop parsley, and grate parmesan cheese.

---

2. Cook the Steak

1. Heat a frying pan over high heat for about 1 minute.
2. Place the steak in the hot pan and sear for 1 minute on each side until browned.
3. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steak for another minute.
4. Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5–10 minutes, covered loosely with foil.

---

3. Cook the Pasta

1. While the steak rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water.

---

4. Make the Sauce

1. In the same pan used for the steak, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. If using white wine, pour it in to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits, and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Add chicken stock and double cream. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired. Simmer on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes.
6. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

---

5. Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked rigatoni and chopped parsley to the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Slice the rested steak into cubes or strips and place them atop the pasta.
3. Serve immediately with extra parmesan cheese and parsley as garnish.

---

Notes for Success

• Resting the Steak: This crucial step ensures the juices redistribute, making the steak juicy and tender.
• Customizations: Swap rigatoni for penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta. Add ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor.
• No Wine? No Problem: Simply replace the white wine with an extra splash of chicken stock.

Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself to a luxurious meal? Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta is guaranteed to hit all the right notes!

Serving Suggestions

1. Plating Tips:
   • Serve pasta in shallow bowls for a rustic, elegant presentation.
   • Place steak cubes or strips artfully on top of the pasta for a polished look.
   • Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated parmesan for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Portion Control:
   • For an individual serving, use approximately 75 g of cooked pasta and 100 g of steak per plate.
   • Adjust portions for hearty eaters or lighter meals.
3. Final Touches:
   • Offer a small side dish of grated parmesan for guests to add to their liking.
   • Pair with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, for a sophisticated touch.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta turns out flawless every time:

1. Overcooking the Steak:
   • Use a meat thermometer to cook the steak to your desired doneness:
     • Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
     • Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
     • Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
   • Rest the steak for 5–10 minutes after cooking to preserve juiciness.
2. Undercooked or Overcooked Pasta:
   • Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions, as it will soften slightly when mixed with the sauce.
3. Overpowering the Garlic Flavor:
   • Garlic can easily dominate the dish if overused. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.
4. Skipping the Deglazing Step:
   • Deglazing with white wine or chicken stock lifts browned bits from the pan, adding depth to your sauce.
5. Ignoring Sauce Consistency:
   • A too-thick sauce can feel heavy; use reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, cohesive texture.

---

Side Dish Recommendations

Pair Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal:

1. Garlic Bread:
   • Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad:
   • A classic Caesar salad provides a crisp, tangy contrast to the rich pasta.
3. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Options like asparagus, brussels sprouts, or zucchini add earthy flavors to your plate.
4. Caprese Salad:
   • Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance the meal with a light, refreshing touch.
5. Mashed Potatoes:
   • Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes serve as a comforting and hearty side.
6. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic:
   • A simple yet flavorful side that complements the garlic notes in the pasta.
7. Tomato Bruschetta:
   • Toasted bread topped with fresh tomato, basil, and olive oil adds a vibrant, tangy bite.
8. Creamy Mushroom Soup:
   • This velvety soup pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pasta.

---

Pro Tips for Pairing Sides

• Balance flavors by pairing creamy pasta with crisp or acidic dishes.
• Consider textures: crunchy sides like garlic bread contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Keep portions moderate to let the Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta shine as the star of the meal.

Recipe Tips

1. Perfecting the Steak:
   • Always allow the steak to come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.
   • For a crispy crust, pat the steak dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
2. Customizations:
   • Vegetarian Option: Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
   • Additional Ingredients: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
   • Gluten-Free Version: Swap rigatoni with gluten-free pasta.
3. Boosting Flavor:
   • Toast the minced garlic in butter until lightly golden before adding liquids to enhance its aroma.
   • For a touch of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
4. Adjusting Consistency:
   • Use reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick. A little goes a long way!

---

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the steak and pasta separate, if possible, to maintain texture.
• Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Place pasta and sauce in a skillet with a splash of chicken stock or milk. Heat gently over medium-low, stirring until warmed through. Add the steak just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating. Add a little liquid to keep the sauce creamy.

---

FAQs

Q1: What is the best cut of steak for this recipe?
A1: Ribeye is ideal for its tenderness and rich marbling. However, sirloin or New York strip steak can also work well.

Q2: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A2: Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or tagliatelle are excellent alternatives to rigatoni.

Q3: How can I make this dish healthier?
A3: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reduce the amount of cream, and incorporate more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

Q4: What can I substitute for white wine?
A4: Replace white wine with an equal amount of chicken stock, or use a splash of lemon juice for a tangy kick.

Q5: How do I ensure my steak stays juicy?
A5: Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
A6: It’s not recommended due to the creamy sauce, which may separate after freezing and reheating.

Q7: Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
A7: You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, storing them separately. Reheat and combine just before serving.

---

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Steak Pasta is a perfect blend of indulgent flavors, creamy textures, and hearty satisfaction. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic evening or a family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

With its tender steak, rich garlic parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with customizations and serve it alongside the suggested sides for a complete dining experience.

Now it’s time to grab your apron and bring this mouthwatering dish to life!